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Shabazz positive Guyana will advance : – Fans will see a more efficient performance
By Rawle Welch
‘Golden Jaguars’ Technical Director Jamal Shabazz in an interview with Kaieteur Sport last Wednesday said that he was confident the team will advance to the group phase of the 2010 FIFA World Cup with a victory over Suriname on Sunday.
The Guyanese, who need to win by two clear goals to advance, went down 1-0 to the Surinamese last Saturday in Paramaribo.
Shabazz, who has made a significant contribution to Guyana’s football since his arrival, has been the chief architect in the country’s improved ranking in CFU as well as being mainly responsible for the majority of the players securing contracts in the Twin Island Republic.
The TD who was seen taking the team through their paces at the Georgetown Football Club ground looked buoyant during the session where the team was engaged in several tactical plays as they prepare for Sunday’s showdown.
Shabazz indicated that all the players have shown admirable commitment despite the numerous setbacks encountered during the period of preparations and they all understand the importance of the game and how it could serve as a stimulus for the sport here.
“I do not wish to complain anymore, but these guys have been through a lot and I can tell you come Sunday local fans will see a more determined and efficient performance from the guys,” Shabazz said.
The team which was plagued by lack of facilities to train, resulting in them having to move to Trinidad and Tobago before the opening game, returned home last Sunday and after a day’s rest resumed training sessions, but were greeted with red flags on a few of the facilities they intended to use some officials citing the incessant rainfall as the reason.
Responding to a newspaper report that criticised the system he employed for the earlier match where it was stated that he employed a lone striker, Shabazz after refuting the claim indicated that at no time in the match did he use such a strategy, but rather he utilised two in the first period and as much as three in the second when they fell behind.
Asked to reveal what system he might use this time, the TD appeared reluctant to do so and was not eager either to discuss his likely starters.
London-based Newton brothers Jake and Howard both of whom could not play the first game due to a matter involving their passports looked impressive during training sessions and seemed to be likely choices to start, while experienced mid-fielder Shawn Bishop, who missed the opening encounter returns to the squad.
“They (Jake and Howard) are excellent additions to the team, they bring professionalism, speed and discipline,” Shabazz informed.
He added that Jermaine Browne, who is based in Suriname, has given a verbal commitment to come and he was willing to give him until Friday to make himself available so that he can make his own assessment.
Shabazz said he was hoping that the issue surrounding the brothers’ passports is resolved in time to give him more options regarding his starting line-up.
Asked about whether United States of America-based Randolph Jerome will be returning in time for the game, Shabazz disclosed that he will not be back because of a status issue. “If he comes now, he would not be able to return to close out the season,” the TD said.
A large turnout is anticipated for the match to be played, at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.
Local fans have been asked to wear the team’s colours of gold and green.
Kick-off time is 15:30 hrs.
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